Emergency response training offered

Thursday

Sep 14, 2017 at 9:38 AMSep 14, 2017 at 9:38 AM

By L.J. GamboneFor the Review

In light of the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey in Texas and Hurricane Irma in Florida, it seems like a good time for Americans to think about disaster preparedness. It’s an issue that the Town of Apple Valley has been addressing on an annual basis since 2003 through its Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training.

The 20-hour free program, which is co-sponsored by the Apple Valley Fire Protection District, will be offered from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sept. 16, 23 and 30 at the Apple Valley Fire Station #336 at 19235 Yucca Loma Road.

Dawn Harrison, emergency services assistant for the town, said the training is invaluable and empowers those who go through it to have the ability to handle any disaster that may come their way.

“I believe everyone should take this training,” said Harrison. “I know that in Apple Valley, we have a limited number of first responders, so in a disaster, it could take a while to get help. It’s much better to be self-supportive.”

According to Harrison, the CERT training will cover multiple topics, such as how to suppress small fires, basic first aid, treatment for shock, how to collaborate with city agencies to support neighborhood exits, search tactics and communications, including the use of radios.

Harrison said a key factor for CERT members is the ability to spontaneously organize and activate themselves in the event of a major disaster. If there is a significant earthquake, phones and other communications channels may be interrupted. CERT members will know where to go, how to organize their efforts, and will get to work without any specific order being issued. A CERT member's first responsibility is to his or herself, then his or her family, and finally his or her community, Harrison said.

“Between earthquakes, fires and floods, we are vulnerable to a disaster at any time,” said Harrison. “We need to know how to be prepared so we can not only take care of ourselves, but also our family members and our pets.”

Harrison said anyone in good health and with a sense of community can participate in CERT. Upon completion of the training, each participant will receive a certificate, a backpack, vest and helmet.

Gloves, goggles, a mask, bandages, flashlight and dressing are required items for each attendee to bring along.

For more information, call 760-240-7000 ext. 7791 or visit www.applevalley.org.